You Don’t Have to Be a Full-Time Theologian to Understand and Love Theology
Theology is not just an academic subject. It’s a spiritual practice for every believer, even those who feel too busy for rigorous study or aren’t advanced readers. To make theology accessible to a wider audience, Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley have combined content from Reformed Systematic Theology into one concise book. Richly biblical, faithfully doctrinal, warmly experiential, and consistently practical, Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology ministers to the whole person―head, heart, and hands.
Featuring shorter chapters, less technical language, and chapter summaries, and drawing on the historical theology of the Reformed tradition, Essentials of Reformed Theology helps readers of various ages and educational levels grow in their understanding and application of the truth presented in God’s word.
Concise Version of Reformed Systematic Theology: Includes shorter chapters, light footnotes, chapter summaries that highlight key words, simplified language, a guide to theologians from history, a glossary of theological terms, and more
Explores 8 Essential Spiritual Themes: Revelation, God, man, Christ, the Holy Spirit, salvation, the church, and last things
Accessible: Ideal for a variety of ages and education levels, as well as for people with limited time to study
Endorsements
“I praise God that the same great biblical truths that are set forth in the exhaustive Reformed Systematic Theology are now made available to all in a more concise and accessible edition. It will be an incalculable blessing and benefit to the laity, our youth, and the global church. This is a remarkable achievement.” —Paul Washer, Director, HeartCry Missionary Society
Thankfully, we now have ‘Beeke and Smalley Junior’ in one volume at a simpler level. Still comprehensive and substantial, it is never ‘dumbed down.’ Wonderfully accessible and readable, it provides an ideal go-to volume for Christians of all ages and stages who want to ‘grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’ (2 Pet. 3:18).” —Sinclair B. Ferguson, Chancellor’s Professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary; Teaching Fellow, Ligonier Ministries
About the Authors
Joel R. Beeke (PhD, Westminster Theological Seminary) has written over one hundred books. He is chancellor and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary; a pastor of the Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, Michigan; the editor of Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth; the board chairman of Reformation Heritage Books; the president of Inheritance Publishers; and the vice president of the Dutch Reformed Translation Society.
Paul M. Smalley (ThM, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary) is faculty teaching assistant to Joel Beeke at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. He previously served for twelve years as a pastor in the Baptist General Conference in the midwestern United States.
5
I love this systematic theology! I love the experientiality of this volume which is characteristic of all of Joel beeke’s writings. Another home run by God’s grace!
Posted by Bruce Bredeson on 13th Nov 2025
After a thorough study of this one volume l plan on purchasing the four volume set.
I will definitely recommend this book to any seeking sojourner.
5
Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology
Posted by Jon Gray on 5th Nov 2025
Very resourceful book for a one stop reference. Excellent explanation at a reasonable cost.
5
Theology books
Posted by Lea Heib on 30th Oct 2025
I purchase many of these books to share
5
Essentials of Reformed Theology
Posted by Douglas Bork on 30th Oct 2025
I have just received this book and I am enjoying it immensely. I purchased the 4 volume set as well and they are definitely a must have for every Christian.
5
Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology
Posted by Chris Jordan on 30th Oct 2025
This is a great read, and an excellent overview of their four volume work. I am almost half way through Volume one, but paused to read "The Essentials" to gain the overarching perspective of this magnificent work. If I was on a deserted island and could only bring my Bible and one other book, that book would be "Essentials...."
5
My Go-to for theological questions!
Posted by Abetti Joshua on 30th Oct 2025
While already indulging in the complete set, I just had to have this summary volume, and already it has served me well. As a pastor you know the struggle of, "I don't have time to read all these chapters on this topic for Sunday's sermon" but you do have time to read the briefer and helpful treatment in this volume! What a blessing to have such theological concision and precisoun at your fingertips.
2
Didn't know it was based on Calvinism. My fault. I wanted Wesleyan background. My fault
Posted by MIKE PHILLIPS on 29th Oct 2025
Im sure the important work was done by authors, but if it is strongly based on definite "election" to salvation, it's not for me.
For over 30 years, I have personally reviewed and approved every book we sell at Reformation Heritage Books. My aim has always been to place into your hands books that are biblically and theologically sound, warmly Reformed, deeply experiential, and eminently practical—books that truly nourish the soul and your daily life as a Christian.
Here’s my personal guarantee: if you purchase a book from us and do not find it profitable, we gladly offer a full refund—shipping included. Feed your soul and mind with a good book today.